"But where'll you sleep to-night?"
"I don't know where; I haven't got any home. I'll sleep out where I can see the stars. But it'll be cold, won't it?"
"My goodness! You'll freeze to death, child."
"Well, what'll become of me, then?"
"The Lord only knows!"
True looked at Gerty in perfect wonder. He could not leave her there on such a cold night; but he hardly knew what he could do with her at home, for he lived alone, and was poor. But another violent coughing decided him to share with her his shelter, fire, and food, for one night, at least. "Come," said he, "with me;" and Gerty ran along by his side, never asking whither.
True had a dozen lamps to light before his round was finished. Gerty watched him light each with as keen an interest as if that were the only object for which she was in his company; and it was only after they had walked on for some distance without stopping, that she inquired where they were going.
"Going home," said True.
"Am I going to your home?" said Gerty.
"Yes," said True, "and here it is."